Can carpet allergens cause kids' symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm last month, I've noticed a persistent musty smell in my living room, and my kids have been experiencing sneezing fits and congestion. The carpets are particularly affected, as they seem to trap all the allergens from outside. Could this be causing their symptoms, and what should I do to clean it properly without making things worse?
Posted by Brian White
Asked on January 6, 2026 11:12 am
0
Absolutely, carpet allergens can indeed be a major source of discomfort for your kids. In the UAE and especially in Dubai, where the climate is often dry and dusty, carpets can easily accumulate all sorts of allergens including dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and fungi. These tiny particles are not only unpleasant but also can trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing fits, congestion, and other respiratory issues.

In your situation, it sounds like the musty smell is a clue that there might be mold growth in or around your carpets. Mold thrives in damp environments and heavy dust storms can introduce moisture into indoor spaces which leads to perfect conditions for mold spores to grow and spread. Given the symptoms your kids are experiencing, it would be wise to have an inspection done by a professional.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Ventilation Check: Ensure that your home is properly ventilated. Open windows if possible, or use exhaust fans to reduce humidity levels which can help prevent mold growth.

2. Deep Clean Your Carpets: Utilize steam cleaning or carpet shampooing techniques which can remove deep-seated allergens and dirt from the fibers. Be sure to follow up with a thorough drying process to avoid moisture buildup.

3. Dust Management: Regularly vacuum your carpets using a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner, but make sure you change the filter often as it tends to get clogged quickly in dusty areas like yours. It's also beneficial to dust all surfaces and corners of your living room to remove visible allergens.

4. Humidity Control: Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to maintain a relative humidity level below 60%. This can help prevent mold from growing.

5. Professional Inspection & Remediation: If the problem persists, it might be time to call in professionals such as Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com. They can provide a thorough inspection and remediate any mold issues effectively.

Remember, addressing these issues promptly not only improves your family's comfort but also ensures the health and safety of everyone in the home. Don't hesitate to seek professional advice if you're unsure about how best to tackle the situation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 10, 2026 4:21 pm